Italy is preparing to host one of the most ambitious editions of the Winter Olympics in recent history, as the 2026 Winter Olympics take place from February 6 to 22, 2026. Officially branded as Milan–Cortina 2026, the Games will be co-hosted by Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, marking a return of the Winter Olympics to Italy for the first time since Turin 2006.
The opening ceremony is scheduled for February 6 at Milan’s iconic San Siro Stadium, one of Europe’s most recognizable sporting venues and home to football clubs AC Milan and Inter Milan. While the ceremony will officially mark the start of the Games, competition will begin earlier, with select events—such as curling and ice hockey—starting on February 4. Organizers say the staggered schedule is designed to accommodate a packed competition calendar and maximize global viewership.
Over 18 days, athletes from around the world will compete in more than 116 medal events across 16 winter sports. Events will be spread across multiple regions in northern Italy, with alpine disciplines set against the dramatic backdrop of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Milan will host indoor events such as figure skating, ice hockey, and speed skating, while Cortina d’Ampezzo and surrounding alpine venues will stage alpine skiing, freestyle skiing, and other snow-based competitions.
The multi-city format reflects a deliberate shift toward sustainability and infrastructure efficiency. Rather than building entirely new venues, organizers are relying heavily on existing arenas and facilities, many of which are being upgraded rather than rebuilt. This approach aligns with the International Olympic Committee’s push for cost-controlled Games that reduce long-term financial and environmental burdens on host countries.
Alpine skiing is expected to be among the marquee attractions of the Games, with early downhill and Super-G events likely to draw global attention. Nordic events, including cross-country skiing and ski jumping, will test endurance and technical precision, while biathlon—combining skiing and rifle shooting—will once again offer some of the most unpredictable medal outcomes. Figure skating and short-track speed skating are also expected to deliver headline moments, blending athleticism with artistry and tactical racing.
One of the defining characteristics of Milan–Cortina 2026 is the geographic diversity of its venues. In addition to Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, competitions will take place in Verona, Valtellina, and other northern Italian locations. The closing ceremony is set for February 22 at Verona’s ancient Roman Arena, providing a historic setting for the final celebration and the formal handover of the Olympic flame.
Beyond sport, the Games are being positioned as a showcase for Italy’s cultural heritage and tourism appeal. Organizers expect millions of visitors and viewers worldwide, with the Olympics serving as a platform to highlight Italy’s infrastructure, hospitality sector, and ability to host complex global events. Local and national authorities anticipate long-term economic benefits, particularly for alpine regions that rely heavily on seasonal tourism.
Security and logistics remain central priorities, given the scale of the event and the number of venues involved. Italian authorities are coordinating closely with international partners to ensure athlete safety, crowd management, and smooth transportation between host cities. Advances in digital ticketing, mobility planning, and broadcast technology are expected to play a key role in delivering a seamless experience for fans on site and around the world.
As the countdown continues, Milan–Cortina 2026 represents more than just a sporting competition. It reflects a broader evolution of the Olympic model—one that balances spectacle with sustainability, global reach with local identity. When the Olympic flame is lit in Milan this February, it will signal not only the start of elite winter competition, but also Italy’s return to the center of the global sporting stage.
